Being close to nature for at least two hours a week is good for health

A large-scale survey published recently in the new issue of Science Report shows that spending at least two hours a week to get close to nature, such as going to urban parks, green areas, suburban hills and beaches, contributes to physical and mental health. Researchers at Exeter University and Uppsala University in Sweden analyzed data from nearly 20,000 inhabitants in England and found that people who spent two hours a week approaching nature were significantly healthier and better psychologically than those who did not touch nature at all. People who have been exposed to nature for less than two hours a week have no obvious advantage.

The results of research show that the time of getting close to nature two hours a week can be reached at one time or accumulated several times outside, which will contribute to physical and mental health. The study took into account gender, occupation, health status, wealth and other factors. Matthew White of Exeter University, who led the study, said that people knew that walking into nature was good for body and mind, but it was not clear what was the most effective measure. In this survey, most people walk into the natural location within 2 miles (about 3.2 kilometers) from home, so even a walk to the green space in the city is good for both body and mind. Getting close to nature for two hours a week is not a difficult goal to achieve. Professor Terry Hattig of Uppsala University in Sweden, co-author of the study, said that the findings could provide evidence for medical practitioners to advise consultants to spend time close to nature every week to help their physical and mental health, just as they did with their weekly fitness advice.